Olusegun Obasanjo critiques Nigeria’s political system, asserting that Western liberal democracy is failing. He condemns corrupt practices among past and current leaders and highlights issues in President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Obasanjo proposes an alternative governance model, “Afrodemocracy,” to better suit Nigeria’s needs, as outlined in his new book, “Nigeria: Past and Future.”
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has asserted that Nigeria needs to critically evaluate its political system, suggesting that “Western liberal democracy” is failing the nation. He has openly critiqued President Bola Tinubu’s administration, labeling its policies as corrupt and wasteful. Furthermore, Obasanjo criticized many current and former leaders, describing them as ill-prepared, self-centered, and responsible for the nation’s degradation through personal enrichment in public office.
In his recent book, “Nigeria: Past and Future”, launched during his 88th birthday celebrations, Obasanjo highlights the troubling trend of governors and presidents accruing massive loans pre-election, with the assumption of repaying them from public funds once in power. He poses a rhetorical question regarding the rapid clearance of debts by a governor who had previously owed billions, despite lacking any legitimate business operations.
The former president also targeted specific projects under Tinubu’s governance, including the controversial N15.6 trillion Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. He referred to this initiative as an evident case of misplaced priorities and corruption, further criticizing the budget for a newly constructed Vice President’s residence, which cost N21 billion amidst economic struggles.
Obasanjo proposed a departure from Western-style governance, advocating for an alternative model termed “Afrodemocracy”. He believes this approach would more accurately reflect Africa’s distinctive culture, history, and governance needs. In his view, if the originating West acknowledges the flaws of liberal democracy, then it is prudent for Africa to introspect and cultivate a system that truly serves its interests.
In conclusion, Olusegun Obasanjo contends that Nigeria is in urgent need of a political re-evaluation, particularly criticizing the failure of Western liberal democracy in addressing the country’s unique challenges. Through his revelations in “Nigeria: Past and Future,” he underscores the inadequacies of current leadership and proposes an Afrodemocracy model as a viable alternative for effective governance in Africa.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
